Off The Strength

🎙️ Curious Over Confidence: The Return of Coach P

Hold onto your track shoes, because this week’s episode of Off The Strength is a masterclass in running, culture, and cutting through the noise! Tony Vidal and KR Jones welcome back their resident run-club-sage, Percell “Coach P” Dugger, for an unfiltered conversation that races through topics faster than a marathoner hitting the Mile 20 wall. 🏃🏽‍♂️💨

Expect hot takes on:
🏅 Racing vs. Running—are you out there for the love or the glory?
🗽 Why Manhattan is the borough to beat on the NYC Marathon route.
🚴‍♂️ Cyclists are banned, Matt Choi got the boot, and NYRR’s beef with recording—what’s really going on?
👟 How brands are actually building community through underground meet-ups (and what happens when they’re just chasing clout).
💰 Pay to Play in running culture—is access really equal?
🤔 Curiosity vs. Confidence—how great coaches guide athletes to unlock their potential without letting ego run the show.

But wait, there’s more:
🌍 Scaling your impact without selling your soul.
🫡 Lessons in grace, grit, and grinding from a coach who’s seen it all.
💡 New run crews redefining what it means to blend lifestyle with sport.
🫀 Why heart disease is the real marathon NYC needs to run.

From deep dives into the 2024 running boom to the eternal question of who’s really here for the community, Coach P, Tony, and KR leave no mile marker unturned. Tune in for sharp insights, a few laughs, and enough inspiration to lace up and hit the pavement. 🎧

💥 Because the journey isn’t about being confident—it’s about staying curious.

#OffTheStrength #CuriousOverConfidence #RunningCulture #CoachPIsBack

For more with OFF THE STRENGTH, please leave us a review, like, listen and subscribe!

Special thanks to Litelok, use our promo code to support the pod! https://us.litelok.com/?dt_id=1762932

Show - @offthestrength_
Tony - @atrainercalledtony
Kyle - @krjones_ and his organic thug line at undnyc

Produced in association with Bryant Perkins of "Eye Did-Dat Productions"
IG page @b_write_there

Peace and much love to y'all out there until next time, we'll see you soon!

In this week’s episode, Tony Vidal and KR Jones dig into the highs, lows, and downright baffling turns of their wellness journeys. If you’ve ever felt disillusioned yet oddly motivated by the state of modern self-care, this episode is for you. 

Here’s a taste of what Tony and KR grapple with this week:

• Nostalgia Hazard: Wondering if your most cherished childhood memories are due for a cancellation? Turns out reminiscing is now a high-risk activity.
• Finding Your Tribe (Before the Sun Sets): As the winter blues close in, finding your people to recharge is vital. Just don’t expect Tony and KR to do anything productive after 5 PM.
• The Divine Intervention Conundrum: Is the universe actually lending a helping hand, or are we all just reading into random acts of chaos? Existential dread meets cautious optimism.
• Job Market Dread, aka “Quitter’s Remorse”: Ever wonder if maybe sticking with that soul-sucking job wouldn’t have been so bad? The guys break down how the search for “what’s next” can feel like being lost in a career desert with no oasis in sight.
• Wellness Is Hard. Even Harder? Asking for Help. Real talk: sometimes the wellness industry feels more gatekept than the entrance to an exclusive NYC club.
• Is Alex Toussaint the New Benchmark? Between Peloton's finest and SPX home gyms, we’re all wondering if this level of hype is attainable or just setting everyone up for failure.
• Boston’s Rooftop Garden & Food as Medicine: Boston hospitals are onto something, turning fresh produce into patient meals. Farm-to-hospital food, anyone?
• Planet Fitness vs. Blink: Who Will Conquer the Neighborhood? Brace yourself for more purple, gold, and cheap memberships. Blink’s loss might be Planet Fitness’ gain.
• Protect Mike Tyson at All Costs (while he funds vegan McDonald’s spin-offs). Somehow this is 2023. Yes, we’re also confused.
• Huberman and Roka Join Forces: Apparently, even eyeglasses now come with “wellness benefits.” Tune in to find out if wellness frames will be the next big thing—or the next big punchline.
• The Barefoot Warrior: We dissect the story of a guy who walked from LA to NYC, barefoot, to raise “awareness” for mental health. Bold? Yes. Confusing? Also yes.
• Protect Your Dreams & Guard Your Aspirations: When it comes to who you share your vision with, keep it small. No reps in, no advice out.
• The World as It Is, or the World as It Could Be? KR and Tony close out with a little aspirational reflection on how to deal with reality while keeping one eye on what’s possible.

This week’s episode is a reminder: wellness is messy, funny, and sometimes downright nonsensical. But that doesn’t mean you can’t laugh and learn along the way. 

For more with OFF THE STRENGTH, please leave us a review, like, listen and subscribe!

Special thanks to Litelok, use our promo code to support the pod! https://us.litelok.com/?dt_id=1762932

Show - @offthestrength_
Tony - @atrainercalledtony
Kyle - @krjones_ and his organic thug line at undnyc

Produced in association with Bryant Perkins of "Eye Did-Dat Productions"
IG page @b_write_there

Peace and much love to y'all out there until next time, we'll see you soon!

Strap in, folks! This week, your favorite wellness renegades, KR Jones and Tony Vidal, take you on a spirited ride through the high-stakes world of self-improvement and cultural curveballs. In this episode, they’re “getting better at being better” and invite you to do the same – with a hearty dose of sarcasm and side-eye for good measure. Join them on this week’s “wellness adventure” where no topic is off-limits!

Episode Highlights:

• "40 Today Doesn't Look Like 40 Yesterday" – Age is just a number, and apparently, that number’s been Photoshopped and filtered.
• Middle-Aged Bodies, Breaking Down – Ah, middle age. The time when the mind says “YES” and the knees scream “NO!”
• Pet & Parenthood Referendum – KR and Tony argue why we should all get a vote on our neighbors' 'life choices,' because your screaming toddler and free-roaming ferret are our problem now too.
• Pronoia vs. Paranoia – Inspired by Tyler the Creator’s “Noid” cameo in yoga, KR and Tony weigh the wellness of believing the universe is conspiring for you, not against you.
• Huberman’s "A Body Still, A Mind Active" – A philosophical ode to finding peace in stillness, or maybe just an excuse for your yoga teacher to nap mid-class.
• Practical Stress-Busters – In today’s chaotic climate, is stress-busting really about mindfulness, or is it just about finding that one yoga class with the best aromatherapy?
• CDC Obesity Decline & Ozempic – Shoutout to everyone on that “natural journey” with just a hint of pharmaceutical magic.
• Berlin’s Les Mills Fitness Rave – A group workout meets rave? Neon sweatbands included; bad dancing optional.
• Strava Keeping Tabs on World Leaders – KR and Tony speculate: Is this how the world ends? A slow jog tracked by Strava?
• Group Fitness Etiquette with KR Jones – Is it really a class without that one guy doing interpretive Zumba?
• "Is It Cake?" Bike Helmet Edition – Because who hasn’t wanted to bite into protective headgear? A tasteful twist on a classic.
• Wu-Tang Dunk Release (No Wu-Tang in Sight) – Streetwear with none of the original crew around. You still get to claim Shaolin cred, though.
• Foolish Food Crimes – A cornbread-fried chicken drink? America’s taste buds collectively file a restraining order.
• Imposter Syndrome & Good News – KR unpacks why good news makes us question our worth, because nothing says wellness like existential crises.
• Self-Forgiveness for Missed Opportunities – If you missed the chance to be your best self in 2017, there’s still time to claim your refund.

Tune in, laugh hard, and maybe take some notes... or not. Either way, you’ll leave inspired to “get better at getting better” and probably relieved that KR and Tony are the ones doing all the talking.

For more with OFF THE STRENGTH, please leave us a review, like, listen and subscribe!

Special thanks to Litelok, use our promo code to support the pod! https://us.litelok.com/?dt_id=1762932

Show - @offthestrength_
Tony - @atrainercalledtony
Kyle - @krjones_ and his organic thug line at undnyc

Produced in association with Bryant Perkins of "Eye Did-Dat Productions"
IG page @b_write_there

Peace and much love to y'all out there until next time, we'll see you soon!

Join Tony Vidal and KR Jones as they journey through the trials, tribulations, and, of course, the occasional existential dread that comes with the pursuit of wellness in New York City. In this week’s episode, "A Requiem for Dignity," our hosts tackle the stark realities and unexpected lessons they encountered in their quest for balance, compassion, and possibly even a paycheck. 

Episode Highlights:

• "How Can I Afford My Time as a Wellness Professional?"
  Contemplating the true cost of wellness while struggling to afford…time itself?
• The Lost Art of Handwritten Thank You Notes
  Bringing a personal touch back to the wellness world one scribbled note at a time. Who knew wellness could be so vintage?
• Soulful Sundays in Brooklyn
  How Brooklyn became the sanctuary for recharging the spirit, one bite at a time.
• Biking in NYC & the Call for Compassion
  Tony recounts a bike accident in Queens and the epiphany that we could all use a bit more humanity on these chaotic streets.
• Can We Bring More Compassion to the City?
  A real-life crusade to make empathy a core tenant in New Yorker DNA.
• Young Black CEO Scores Big on Shark Tank
  Celebrating a fresh deal on ABC’s Shark Tank with CARD.io.
• Concept 2 Rowers' New Strength Training Gear
  Because why row when you can also lift? Home gyms, prepare yourselves.
• Are Gym Weights Dirtier Than Public Toilet Seats?
  The case for handwashing offenders and why slapping them might be the wellness protocol we all need.
• The Energy Drink Boom & The Youth Market
  Explosive growth in energy drinks and what it means for a generation that’s definitely not resting enough.
• FDA Warning: Teens, SARM’s Are Not Your Friends
  Breaking down the hype and hidden dangers of SARMs – and why they’re targeting teens.
• Photographer Reginald Thomas Collaborates with Vince Staples & Jayson Tatum
  Exploring the power of art, athletics, and culture.
• Steven A. Smith & Jaylen Brown’s "Unnamed Sources" Debacle
  Riffing on the power of "unnamed sources" and the media frenzy they cause.
• Height-Altering Surgery, New Gym Moves
  A wild update on our height-altering friend now power-jumping with his shiny new fake legs.
• The Hustle Culture Myth & True Path to Success
  Is hustle culture a mirage? Unpacking the myths and the real keys to progress.
• Networking vs. Net Worth
  Why "your network is your net worth" is a motto that cuts both ways.
• Knowing When to Play Main Character vs. Team Player
  A guide to role-playing in life’s big narrative and knowing when to pass the ball.
• DJ Clark Kent Passes at 57: Black Men’s Health & Screenings
  The urgent call for awareness in Black men’s health, early screenings, and family conversations.

Get ready to laugh, learn, and possibly even cringe, as Tony and KR get to the gritty reality of wellness and humanity, one hard-hitting to

For more with OFF THE STRENGTH, please leave us a review, like, listen and subscribe!

Special thanks to Litelok, use our promo code to support the pod! https://us.litelok.com/?dt_id=1762932

Show - @offthestrength_
Tony - @atrainercalledtony
Kyle - @krjones_ and his organic thug line at undnyc

Produced in association with Bryant Perkins of "Eye Did-Dat Productions"
IG page @b_write_there

Peace and much love to y'all out there until next time, we'll see you soon!

In This Week’s Episode: Tony Vidal and KR Jones dive into the weekly wellness shenanigans that might just make you ask, “Is this adulting or just organized chaos?”

We kick things off with the big existential question: Can Black Men's joy be achieved? Spoiler: It might involve whiskey, a game night, and possibly a trip to Butcher’s Daughter... or was that just an excuse to say “canna-infused charcuterie” out loud?

The fellas hash out everyone’s “wild out allowance” and how much wiggle room you get before the wellness gods start judging. Plus, we’ve got uncommon prayers for the Goop crowd (because who says you can’t mix Sunday service with overpriced incense and oat milk lattes?).

Robert Glasper’s Robtober at Blue Note? Pure vibes. But sometimes, you have to channel your inner bad guy to get things done. The power of presence isn’t just for yoga class, folks. KR might’ve been caught with his “panties in a bunch” over a laundry mishap, but hey, adulting is all about teaching people how to treat you — even if it’s about your delicates.

From McDonald’s surprising new fitness app success (yes, you read that right) to Maap Lab’s concept bike store in Seoul making your inner cyclist weep, we’re unpacking how even Big Macs and fancy gear shops are shaping the wellness scene. And speaking of tech, are all brick-and-mortar businesses destined to become “third spaces,” or just new spots for overpriced Wi-Fi and espresso?

Asics Research Alert! Office workers who don’t move = more stressed. Groundbreaking, right? Meanwhile, Gymshark is trying to make PR lifts in Vegas cooler than blackjack, and Diplo thinks running 5Ks should come with a $116 cover charge (mini music festival included, of course).

KR and Tony touch on traditional alcohol brands hopping on the non-alcoholic bandwagon. It’s like your cool uncle finally discovering kombucha. Plus, Brandon Haynes drops his new doc on Renee Montgomery, proving that friends of the show don’t just talk, they make moves.

New York City Pop-Up Alert: Salomon is here, Sea Ice Marathon in Sweden is calling all masochists, and Marsha Ambrosius is reminding everyone that musical performances can still feel like a hug from an angel.

And as for the satirical breakdown of primal zodiac animals and bad ads, we’re all in. If you’ve ever needed a soulful laugh for a great recharge, this episode is your warm, hilarious reset. After all, champions aren’t extraordinary — they just do the ordinary extra.

Catch this week’s episode, where the takes are hot, the wisdom is debatable, and KR still thinks people who talk on speakerphone in public are an affront to humanity.

For more with OFF THE STRENGTH, please leave us a review, like, listen and subscribe!

Special thanks to Litelok, use our promo code to support the pod! https://us.litelok.com/?dt_id=1762932

Show - @offthestrength_
Tony - @atrainercalledtony
Kyle - @krjones_ and his organic thug line at undnyc

Produced in association with Bryant Perkins of "Eye Did-Dat Productions"
IG page @b_write_there

Peace and much love to y'all out there until next time, we'll see you soon!

Tune in to this week’s episode of Off The Strength as hosts Tony Vidal and KR Jones take you on a journey through a whirlwind week of wellness events in NYC, including the Jack Taylor Fall Showcase, CultureCon NYC, and First Saturdays at the Brooklyn Museum presented by The Layout. Join them as they share insights, highlights, and the best moments from these vibrant gatherings that bring together the fitness and wellness community.

But that’s not all! Tony and KR will also dive deep into the latest wellness trends and controversies shaping the future of health and fitness. Here’s what’s on the agenda:

• The Pill Dilemma: Are we nearing an age where a pill can replace your workout? Discover the ethical and health implications of exercise-mimicking pills and what this means for traditional fitness routines.
• The Gamified Workout: From VR spin classes to app-based fitness games, gamification is making workouts more fun—but is it as effective? We’ll break down the pros and cons.
• The Loneliness Epidemic: With workplace culture changing, more people are turning to apps to make friends at work. We’ll explore how this trend is impacting mental health and what can be done to address the growing sense of isolation.
• The Pickleball Phenomenon: The sport that’s taking over courts across the nation has some unexpected health risks. Find out why everyone’s talking about pickleball, and what you need to know before you pick up a paddle.
• AI Gone Wrong: When AI meets fitness, the results aren’t always perfect. We’ll share a shocking story about an AI coach and its insensitive comments, exploring the limitations and potential pitfalls of AI in wellness.
• The Future of Wellness: From AI coaches to the rising obsession with the "movie star" physique, we’re looking at where wellness is headed and what trends are driving it forward.
• Friends in Business: Building a brand is tough; doing it with a friend can be even tougher. Tony and KR open up about the ups and downs of running a business together.
• The Importance of Communication: Strong partnerships require open dialogue. We’ll discuss why clear communication is the backbone of any successful venture.
• The Power of Vulnerability: Wellness isn’t just physical—it's about emotional strength too. We’ll explore why sharing your struggles and being honest about your journey can be empowering.

Whether you’re a wellness enthusiast, fitness pro, or just curious about the latest trends, this episode is packed with thoughtful discussions, personal stories, and plenty of insights. Don’t miss out!

For more with OFF THE STRENGTH, please leave us a review, like, listen and subscribe!

Special thanks to Litelok, use our promo code to support the pod! https://us.litelok.com/?dt_id=1762932

Show - @offthestrength_
Tony - @atrainercalledtony
Kyle - @krjones_ and his organic thug line at undnyc

Produced in association with Bryant Perkins of "Eye Did-Dat Productions"
IG page @b_write_there

Peace and much love to y'all out there until next time, we'll see you soon!

In this week’s episode of Off The Strength, hosts Tony Vidal and KR Jones delve deep into the power of self-accountability and the importance of changing behavior instead of just offering apologies. They share personal stories from their week in wellness, discuss the significance of emotional resilience, and explore how self-talk shapes our daily lives. From shout-outs to the tribe that continues to support them, to reflections on unwavering belief and mental clarity, this episode offers a thought-provoking blend of humor, reflection, and inspiration.

Tony and KR talk about how we often say "my bad" as a quick fix, but it's crucial to take meaningful action to align with our best selves. Whether it’s through community support, wellness rituals, or emotional resilience, the message is clear: change the behavior to change the outcome.

Topics Discussed:

• Wellness check-in: Reflections on community, tribe, and personal growth
• The importance of emotional resilience and mental clarity
• How your self-talk influences your actions and environment
• The impact of affirmations on personal development
• Shout-outs to leaders in the wellness community
• Navigating the shift in sports and wellness spaces, including the rise of Athlos NYC and non-traditional competitions
• The best (and worst) fitness products to check out on Amazon Prime Day

And so much more!

Key Takeaway: This episode is a reminder that self-improvement comes through actionable change, not just surface-level apologies. Dive into the conversation and find out how you can hold yourself accountable, both in wellness and life!

For more with OFF THE STRENGTH, please leave us a review, like, listen and subscribe!

Special thanks to Litelok, use our promo code to support the pod! https://us.litelok.com/?dt_id=1762932

Show - @offthestrength_
Tony - @atrainercalledtony
Kyle - @krjones_ and his organic thug line at undnyc

Produced in association with Bryant Perkins of "Eye Did-Dat Productions"
IG page @b_write_there

Peace and much love to y'all out there until next time, we'll see you soon!

Get ready for a hilarious and thought-provoking episode of "Off the Strength" as Tony and KR dive into a variety of topics, from the mundane to the extraordinary. In this episode, we'll discuss everything from the age-old debate of toilet paper orientation to the latest trends in augmented reality glasses.

Topics Covered:

• Relationship Dynamics: Explore the humorous and frustrating aspects of navigating relationships, including the classic toilet paper debate.
• Wellness and Self-Care: Discuss the importance of prioritizing mental health and finding balance in your life, even when faced with setbacks.
• Work and Career: Explore the challenges of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and the pressures of appearing well in a wellness-focused society.
• Technology and Trends: Discuss the latest advancements in augmented reality and the potential implications for our daily lives.
• Current Events: Stay up-to-date on the latest news, including the merger of Pure Gyms and Blink Fitness and the rise of content creators on OnlyFans.
• Personal Stories: Hear inspiring and humorous anecdotes from Tony and KR's lives, from childhood experiences to recent adventures.
• Community and Connection: Discuss the power of building strong relationships and supporting others, both within the wellness community and beyond.
• Inspirational Messages: Leave feeling motivated and inspired to pursue your own wellness goals and make a positive impact on the world.

Join us for a thought-provoking and entertaining episode of "Off the Strength" that will leave you feeling inspired and informed.

For more with OFF THE STRENGTH, please leave us a review, like, listen and subscribe!

Special thanks to Litelok, use our promo code to support the pod! https://us.litelok.com/?dt_id=1762932

Show - @offthestrength_
Tony - @atrainercalledtony
Kyle - @krjones_ and his organic thug line at undnyc

Produced in association with Bryant Perkins of "Eye Did-Dat Productions"
IG page @b_write_there

Peace and much love to y'all out there until next time, we'll see you soon!

Join Tony Vidal and KR Jones for another action-packed episode of Off The Strength! In this episode, we'll dive deep into the world of wellness and discuss the latest trends, from luxury health retreats to innovative fitness classes.

We'll also share our personal journeys as wellness professionals, reflecting on our challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned. From overcoming mental health struggles to finding balance in our busy lives, we'll offer practical advice and inspiration for listeners of all levels.

• Wellness Trends:
  • Luxury wellness cruises offering stem cell treatments and more
  • Hot Pilates: a new high-intensity workout combining heat and Pilates
  • The rise of "pizza resumes" in the job market
• Personal Experiences:
  • Tony's journey with mental health and personal growth
  • KR's experiences with wellness practices and self-care
  • Reflections on challenges and triumphs in their careers
• Health and Wellness Tips:
  • Mental health strategies: breathwork, mindfulness, community support
  • Physical health: Pilates, hot yoga, strength training
  • Holistic wellness: meditation, self-care rituals, healthy lifestyle habits
• Societal Issues:
  • Mental health stigma and the importance of breaking it down
  • The pursuit of happiness and fulfillment in a fast-paced world
  • The balance between work and self-care

Tune in to "Off the Strength" for a thought-provoking and informative episode that will leave you inspired and motivated to prioritize your own well-being!

For more with OFF THE STRENGTH, please leave us a review, like, listen and subscribe!

Special thanks to Litelok, use our promo code to support the pod! https://us.litelok.com/?dt_id=1762932

Show - @offthestrength_
Tony - @atrainercalledtony
Kyle - @krjones_ and his organic thug line at undnyc

Produced in association with Bryant Perkins of "Eye Did-Dat Productions"
IG page @b_write_there

Peace and much love to y'all out there until next time, we'll see you soon!

Episode Description:
In this action-packed episode, KR Jones and Tony Vidal break down everything from fitness principles to the realness of adult life. Join the Off The Strength crew as they explore how the SAID principle sneaks into your daily routine, why partying after 30 hits different (and hurts harder), and the highs of being celebrated by your people. They get candid on whether “keeping it real” still holds weight, how to handle flakey folks, and why asserting yourself is a must in today’s world of FAFO.

Plus, they dive into the battle for your ‘hood—why that new bike lane might be the last sign it’s still yours, and what it means when the founder of Spotify jumps into wellness tech. From Jaylin Brunson’s mission to save New York basketball to the first-ever CBD endorsement in D1 sports, this episode covers all things health, hustle, and heart.

Get ready for some real talk on recovery—mental, physical, and emotional—as the guys unpack "The Body Keeps the Score" and the importance of preventative fitness for longevity. Tune in, and vibe out!

For more with OFF THE STRENGTH, please leave us a review, like, listen and subscribe!

Special thanks to Litelok, use our promo code to support the pod! https://us.litelok.com/?dt_id=1762932

Show - @offthestrength_
Tony - @atrainercalledtony
Kyle - @krjones_ and his organic thug line at undnyc

Produced in association with Bryant Perkins of "Eye Did-Dat Productions"
IG page @b_write_there

Peace and much love to y'all out there until next time, we'll see you soon!